You can read Policy 7316 Use of internet-enabled devices during the school day here. It restates the requirements in Education Law Section 2803.
The district has published its Annual Internet-Enabled Device Policy Enforcement Report for the 2025-26 school year. You can read the report here. The report summarizes enforcement of the district’s internet-enabled device policy during the prior school year and includes non-identifiable demographic data, an analysis of any demographic disparities in enforcement and, if applicable, a mitigation action plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did the district implement a distraction-free schools policy?
A: In January of 2025, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that a Distraction-Free School Zones Policy was part of her legislative proposal for the 2025-26 school year. In May, the Governor’s budget and proposal were adopted.
Q: When was the distraction-free schools policy first implemented?
A: Implementation for all students began in September for the 2025-26 school year.
Q: What does the Jamesville-DeWitt Central School District policy look like in schools?
A: To accommodate the statewide ban, the Jamesville-DeWitt Central School District implemented a consistent policy across all buildings.
All students are required to store their electronic devices—including cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, and similar items—along with their backpacks in lockers/cubbies for the duration of the school day. The only allowable electronic devices during the school day are those issued by the district, such as school-issued iPads and Chromebooks, which are used to support classroom instruction.
Limited exceptions may be made in accordance with the legislation, with district approval (e.g., medical or special education needs). Please contact your child’s main office if you feel you might qualify for an exception.
Q: What does the duration of the school day mean?
A: From the moment students arrive at school until they are dismissed, cell phones and other personal internet devices must be turned off and put away. This includes time in class, lunch, study halls, passing time between periods, and field trips.
Once students are dismissed, the ban no longer applies. After-school sports, clubs and evening events are not affected.
Q: How can I communicate with my child during the school day?
A: We understand that families may need to communicate with their child or the school during the day. There are several secure and reliable ways to do so:
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- Phone Calls: Parents and guardians can always call the main office of their child’s school for immediate assistance.
- District Communication Platforms: ParentSquare and school emails allow parents and guardians to message school staff and receive timely updates.
- School Intercom System: In the event of an emergency, school staff are able to communicate with students through the building’s intercom system to deliver urgent messages.
- Written Notes: Parents may send in written notes to the main office with instructions or information to be shared with their child.
Q: Does the policy also apply to staff?
A: No, while the policy is for student use of personal electronic devices, it does not govern use by faculty and staff in our schools. However, faculty and staff should model positive behavior and have their personal electronic device away during instructional time.
Q: What happens if a student violates the policy?
A: To help students and families adjust to this new policy, the following procedures will be followed for any violations:
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- First Violation: The electronic device will be collected by school administration, securely stored in the main office, and returned to the student at the end of the school day.
- Second and All Subsequent Violations: The electronic device will be collected by school administration, securely stored in the main office, and must be picked up by a parent or guardian at the end of the school day.
- Optional Consequence for Repeated Violations: In cases of continued noncompliance, at administrators discretion, the school may require the student to store their device in the main office each morning for a specified period of time.
Q: How was the policy developed?
A: Following the announcement from the Governor in January, the district conducted a ThoughtExchange survey. It was open to students, staff, families, and the community. More than 600 people participated.
View the ThoughtExchange results:
The Board of Education also held a Virtual Smartphone Policy Public Forum in May to gather additional input to help guide decisions and ensure policy changes were beneficial for all involved.
A policy committee was formed which included four Board of Education members; Superintendent Dr. Darcy Woodcock; Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction, and Equity Nate Franz; and Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services Peter Reyes. They reviewed the state requirements, current policies in place, and stakeholder feedback while preparing the policy and procedures.
Q: My child plays sports and has equipment and/or an extra backpack to store. What should they do if they can’t fit everything in their locker?
A: This will be addressed on a case-by-case basis with students. The student should speak with the main office if this occurs.
Q: Is electronic device use allowed on school buses on the way to school and home from school?
A: Yes.
Q: Can students carry purses or small bags?
A: Students can carry small purses or pouches for personal items that are no larger than 5 inches by 8 inches. No electronic devices can be stored in them.
Q: Who can I submit additional questions to?
A: We are here to help. You can contact the main office of your student’s school with additional questions.